Lifestyle

9 Of The Most Challenging Breeds For First Time Dog Parents

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All dogs can be our best friends, big or small, bouncing with energy or desperate for a cuddle. There isno such thing as 'bad' breeds, and we cannot apply stereotypes to a dog's temperament. However, if you've never had a pup before, then several breeds can be a bit more of a handful.Here are 9 breeds that you might want to wait to adoptuntil you have had a few years training yourself.

1. Dalmations

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Source: @bexloulouDon't be fooled by the Disney classic. Dalmatians are rowdy by nature and never fully outgrow their tendency to jump on people. They need to be exercised often in order to keep in-house energy levels to a low.If not properly exercised and mentally stimulated throughout the day, this breed can become destructive. Additionally, because they love people so much, separation anxiety can develop, which might lead to some shredded pillows...

2. Weimaraners

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Source: @silky_ottoFamous for theirbeautiful grey coat, novice dog owners can get into trouble with Weimaraners as they can be quite a handful. The biggest reasons that these dogs become rowdy, hyper and destructive is lack of exercise. If your adult Weimaraner is out of control at home, it is most likely because he is not being allowed to burn off enough of his extra energy.If you want to share your life with a Weimaraner, then be prepared to get active.

3. Australian Cattle Dogs

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Source: @lobotheheelerAustralian Cattle Dogs, also known as Blue Heelers, are a medium sized dog with a hell of a lot of endurance. They are descended from Dingoes, and bred to herd. They require an extreme amount of exercise and plenty of room. This breed is very high energy and should not be confined to an apartment.They can also become dominant, so a firm, consistent leader is necessary for training, otherwise this breed will rule the roost.

4. Cocker Spaniels

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Source: @tartufopuppyEnglish Cockers crave companionship, and even if properly exercised can still develop severe separation anxiety. Very needy and clingy, they can be avid lickers if not receiving enough attention.This breed is incredibly sensitive and takes it personally when someone treats them harshly, whichcould result in retaliation.

5. Rhodesian Ridgebacks

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Source: @ridgebacktysonRhodesian Ridgebacks have their roots in Africa, so they are used to a lot of activity and can endure soaring temperatures.They are not for novice dog owners, as it takes a lot of time and energy to properly train this breed.Without proper exercise, this breed can become anxious and destructive.

6. Saint Bernards

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Source: @scarlet_the_stbernardSaint Bernards are not the cleanestdogs. They drool loads, and shed all year round. They also have a tendency to make a mess of their food and water dishes, dripping everywhere. Neat freaks may want to avoid this breed. Or get used to carrying drool rags around and investing in a super vacuum cleaner. It's usually worse when they are out and about and when they are excited.A true 'messy pup'.

7. English Bulldogs

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Source: @leia_english_bulldogThis lot would much prefer to have a good nap than go on a walk in the park. Sleepy and lazy, they don't require much exercise but they should however be walked since obesity is a problem for them. Food agression is also a problem - they love to eat and no one should ever mess with a Bulldog and his dinner. If snoring, grunting, snorting, drooling and flatulencebother you, then maybe look into adopting a different breed. These guys do a lot of that.

8. Airedale Terriers

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Source: @philomena.airedaleAiredales will bark at everything and anything - strangers, other animals, neighbours, cars, even the rubbish bin.It's essential to start training them to stop barking from a young age.A classic terrier, they also love digging. They should be kept on a lead when going outdoors as they can quickly run off if they see something to chase.Once and Airedale takes off on a chase, it will be nearly impossible to stop him.

9. Akitas

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Source: @akitakaiAggression toward other animals is the biggest issue with an Akita. They don't give away any sign of hostility, so they may be playing one minute, and then attack the next.Akitas are a challenge to train, as they are strong-willed and dominant. So any human taking them on should be firm and consistent.NB. Although these breeds maybe challenging,they are all lovely dogs and with positive reinforcement, they can be trained.

Featured image: @tartufopuppy

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